Pheasant commission in progress

Its my first time painting a bird to be honest. I knew feather work was going to be tricky, but I'm starting to see the amount that really needs doing to this now.

I've made a small dent in it. Despite the huge amount of time and work that has already gone into this, I don't feel like im half way yet.

Getting shape to this bird I feel is all about the graduation in the colours of those feathers. I need to focus on getting everything down and then focus on contrast, clever highlights will be key. Lots to do.

I'm glad for the challenge but need to not get bogged down by the details. Oil on canvas, pheasant commission

(12x24 inches)